The NSW Government has announced plans for an artificial reef to be constructed off the coast of Sydney.

 

The reef is due to begin construction later this year after a prolonged period of consultation and planning.

 

“The $900,000 reef will be located approximately 1.2 kilometres off The Gap at Vaucluse and 1.9 kilometres off South Head,” NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Katrina Hodgkinson said.

 

 “Scientists from NSW Department of Primary Industries will monitor the Sydney reef for three years using diver surveys and advanced underwater video technology to assess the impacts and effectiveness of the reefs.

 

“Each artificial reef unit is made of steel, stands 12 metres high and weighs approximately 42 tonnes and is designed to provide a highly complex habitat for a range of marine species,” Ms Hodgkinson said.

 

The reef will be deployed at a water depth of 38 metres and will create a reef for recreational fishing, while providing habitat for a wide range of bottom-dwelling and oceanic fish species.